White Phalaenopsis Orchid

So, you’ve been the lucky recipient of an orchid plant–congratulations!

Once the gorgeous blooms start dying off, perhaps that feeling of joy has turned to one of panic. Questions pop into your head…along with the premonition that you surely cannot keep this thing alive.

What now? When the flowers die is the plant dead? Do I put it outside or inside? How often do I water it? Should I just throw it away since the flowers fell off?

Stop panicking…believe it or not, orchids aren’t as high maintenance as their reputation makes them out to be! That said, they definitely aren’t as low maintenance as that cactus on your desk! But, just follow a few general tips and you can enjoy your orchid plant for months, maybe years, to come. There’s a reason why ‘orchid people’ are an infatuated bunch of folks–they can’t resist the unique beauty of the breathtaking plants!

Read on for basic info–applicable to most orchid species–along with great orchid resources for detailed info.

Take it From the Top

Congrats–someone must really care for you to send you such a gorgeous plant! So, take good care of it!

-When you receive your new orchid, feel the ’soil’ (orchids use a different potting mix than other plants and do not survive in plain old dirt/soil) to see if it is very dry. If it is, water it–lightly!–over a sink.

-Orchids need light! Don’t stick it in a dark corner, but don’t put it in direct light either. Filtered, indirect sunlight–like on a nice window sill–is best.

-Enjoy the show! Appreciate the flowers while your plant is still in bloom. Different species keep their blooms for different amounts of time. If your plant is blooming for quite some time, make sure to water it–lightly!–once every 7 days and to make sure it is getting enough light.

-Figure out what kind of orchid you’re dealing with. There are many different species, which require different care. Some of the most popular are Cattleya, Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium and Oncidium. Posted below are three popular species; see the resources section at the very bottom of this post for a more detailed list in order to identify what kind of orchid you’ve got and how to care for it.

Dendrobium:

Oncidium:

Oncidium Orchid

Phalaenopsis:

Lavender Phalaenopsis Orchid

What Now?!?

So you’ve enjoyed your orchid in all its blooming splendor…now what? Well, it’s time to repot!

-Your orchid most likely came in a small, decorative flowerpot with minimal drainage. You must repot it so it has a bigger home to flourish in.

-Clay pots, shallow but wide are the best. If you cannot find a special orchid pot with holes for good drainage online or at a local nursery, then head to the Home Depot and grab a shallow terracotta ‘azalea pot’.

-Orchids cannot survive in potting soil. They require a special mix. This is a great one; if you cannot find orchid mix at your local nursery/home improvement store, then look for fir bark at Home Depot or Lowe’s.

-Fill the pot about 1/3 of the way with the orchid mix.

-Carefully remove your orchid from the decorative pot it arrived in–taking care not to damage the plant or roots. You may have to use a screwdriver or knife–just be sure to clean it with alcohol first–to gently pry it out.

-Fill the rest of the pot with orchid mix.

-Water lightly and place it back in its favorite spot with plenty of light. Don’t water for another 6 days or so.

-Keep an eye on it and make sure not to over-water it! Water your plants over a sink and never let it sit in water. Always water in the morning!

-Fertilize with orchid fertilizer once a month. Make sure the fertilizer you buy is specially made for orchids.

Bad Signs

Once you’ve repotted your orchid, you need to keep an eye on it to look for signs of sickness or distress.

-Your orchid leaves should be a medium green color. Very dark green leaves mean your orchid may not be receiving enough light; lighter green leaves means it is getting too much light. Adjust accordingly!

-If your orchid starts to get blotchy or damaged looking leaves, hold off on watering. It may be getting “root rot” from over-watering it. If the leaves and new growth turn black, then it is definitely getting root rot.

-If you see signs of distress, then seek help! Check out the orchid resources listed below for more in-depth help.

Orchid Help: Care, Identification and Shopping

Orchid Care Tips: Beautiful Orchids

Orchid Identification: My Orchid Care

Orchid Care for Specific Species: Aloha Orchids

Send Orchids: FromYouFlowers.com

Buying Unique Orchids for Yourself: Aloha Orchids & Angel Street Orchids

Happy Growing!

You rejoice in your manliness—whether it means flexing in the mirror to show off your ‘guns’, ordering that single malt scotch to let the ladies know you’re a man of fine taste, bragging about your golf game to anyone who will listen, or making sure to rev your engine when at a red light. But what’s in your manly web-toolbox?

Ok, so you have every Van Halen album on vinyl—but does your iPod have any songs in rotation that were released in the last decade? Maybe you strive to be a saint by sending your lady roses every anniversary, but do you really think she wants to receive the same red roses every single year of your marriage? Perhaps you’re wearing the same ripped up Old Navy cargo shorts from 2006. You may think they look fine, but do you really think the ladies do? You can recite every engine spec for the Trans Am you drove in 1979, but do you know what the manliest cars are on the market today?

Have no fear, Gentlemen! I’m here to provide you with a strictly objective list of what sites you should be reading, bookmarking and digesting. From music to news to TV to cars to how to woo the ladies, I’m here as your neutral—and non-manly—tour guide. Become a better man: read on!

Manliness

What manly man couldn’t always strive for even more manliness? Check out these sites that give you the skills to pay the bills.

Art of Manliness
The Art of Manliness is a virtual hub for all things manly. The site covers areas such as Dress and Grooming, Money and Career, Relationships and Family, Health, and more—all packaged up in a fittingly manly-designed site. Check out the Manly Skills area for tips about everything from building basement shelves to tying a proper knot.

American Mustache Institute
Need I say more?

Men’s Health
Required reading for men everywhere, this staple covers fitness, style, women and more.

Man Institute
The Man Institute bills itself as “Your Source for Everything Manly”—you decide if it lives up to such a bold statement. A variety of topics is covered, including funny pranks, manly movies and Man Myths. Take a gander.

Marvel and DC

Real Men Still Read Comics!

Cars

Are you a motor-head? Whether your passion is for muscle cars, tricked out imports, shiny new sports cars, rugged utility vehicles, or flatbed pickups, I’ve put together a reading list for you.

Jalopnik
Jalopnik is the big daddy of car sites. If you are ‘Obsessed with The Cult of Cars’—as so many of us humans are—then you this is definitely the site for you and you’re slipping if you aren’t currently reading. Car reviews, new cars, classic cars, car crime, car news, car gadgets…they’ve got it all under one roof, or should I say, one server.

Car and Driver
Your favorite car magazine is online and ready to dish out car buying tips, reviews, news and more.

AutoTrader
How could I forget–this is a no brainer! Do your car research, sell your car buy a new or used car…we all know AutoTrader is your one stop site.

Ladies

Ok, so maybe you don’t want to admit it, but what manly man doesn’t need a little help in the ladies department? I’m here to tell you that there’s always room for improvement, guys.

FromYouFlowers.com
Ok, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that we ladies love to get flowers. But, did you know that many of us find red roses passé? Send tulips, orchids, lilies and other unique choices to really get her swooning. And—please!—don’t just send her flowers only on anniversaries, birthday, and to express your apology for your most recent mistake. Send your lovely lady flowers on an ordinary day and watch her melt like butter.

Rouxbe
How can you get even more brownie points other than sending flowers? Cook her dinner! Rouxbe touts itself as the first online cooking school. More than just recipes, it has videos that actually show you how to prepare the meals. Very cool.

Need some romantic date ideas? Check out the next blog entry for the ultimate summertime date list.

Sports

Pick your passion—golf, baseball, football, mixed martial arts, basketball…these sites have got you covered.

ESPN
The granddaddy!

SI
More than just the swimsuit issue, SI has always been a tried and true source of real-time sports info, news and more.

Fantasy Football

If you aren’t already wasting—I mean, joyfully spending— hours of time on Fantasy Football, sign up here. Football season is right around the corner—do you have your fantasy team together yet?

UFC
The popularity of the extremely manly sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighting has skyrocketed—to put it lightly—in the last few years. UFC is the ultimate—no pun intended—authority on MMA fighting. Packing thousands of screaming fans into every fight venue, the UFC has turned itself into an absolute worldwide phenomenon and has also brought on a successful empire of apparel, magazines, reality shows….even jewelry! Start at the source for your UFC fix.

Extreme
All things extreme sports are covered on this powerhouse of a site.

Shopping
It’s time to throw out those old and ratty and cargo shorts and sweat-stained t-shirts, fellas. Impress the ladies with some new fly threads and decent skincare.

Uncrate
This cleanly designed site covers all kinds of essentials spanning gear, entertainment, manly products and more.

Banana Republic
Dress to impress with this classic—and somewhat affordable—source for quality apparel. Whether you’re looking for the perfect suit, softest t-shirt, or a new pair of jeans, stop by for a solid collection of wardrobe essentials.

Kiehl’s
Carrying high quality men’s essential products since 1851, you cannot ever go wrong with Kiehl’s. An absolute standby for shaving cream, soap, cleanser, shampoo and more, they’ve got everything you need to look and smell good! Sure beats Irish Spring…

Men.Style.com
Check out this stylistically created website to really impress with the latest looks off the runway.

Music

From 8 tracks to vinyl to tapes to CDs to MP3s, the music industry sure has come a long way. If you can’t live without music then check out this list of essential music reading—and listening.

Pandora
In my humble opinion, Pandora is the coolest music website to emerge in the past few years. Completely customizable, Pandora lets you listen to the music you love and even find out new music based on your favorites. And their awesome mobile application lets you listen to your favorite artists on the go. A must!

Rolling Stone
An oldie but a goody! Music news, interviews, reviews and more are solid—and their interviews are always unique and compelling.

Hypem
Hypem scours the web for the hottest music blogs—then compiles the results all in one place. A search engine for music blogs with a cool user interface and handy media player, this site is sure to please.

Technology

There has never been a better time to be a nerd! Geek chic has gone worldwide and the evidence is everywhere you look—music, fashion, movies and more. Celebrities are Tweeting and your Grandma’s on Facebook. Embrace your inner geek—after all, geeks shall inherit the earth!

Slashdot
“News for Nerds. Stuff that Matters.” Indeed! Catch up on all the latest gadgets and news here.

Mashable
If you work on the web, you need to be reading this site. Social media news, tips and more, the site is chock full of information.

TechCrunch
A standby bookmark for techies everywhere.

Games Radar
Get your game on with reviews, articles and previews, all written from a true gamer’s perspective!

Family

Great Dad
The ultimate sign of a manly man is—without a doubt—being a great dad. And this site is full of helpful articles, resources and tips from the unique fatherly point of view. A must read for dads everywhere!

News

Turn off The Family Guy and catch up on the latest news so you can actually have an informed conversation about world events!

NPR
One of my all time favorite sites all around, NPR is overflowing with articles and news—National, Music, Life and Global—and has tons of really cool features, like listening online, podcasts and more. An absolute must on your bookmarks list!

BBC
Essential news website to help you stay informed.

Movies and TV

Hulu
How awesome is it to watch your favorite TV shows online?! And, even cooler, they are FREE! You’re slipping if you don’t have this site bookmarked.

Rotten Tomatoes
Movie reviews and more—you may not always agree with them, but the ‘Tomatometer’ is a cool concept nonetheless!

Movies.com
Find showtimes, trailers, reviews and more on this hub for movie fans.

Whew—I’m worn out from scouring the web for all things manly! I’m sure I’ve left out quite a few–after all, I am a girl–so speak up fellas. Tell me your favorite required reading. Class dismissed—go back to your whiskey, cigars, and pumping iron.

Sunday June 21st is right around the corner—do you have anything special planned yet for Dad? We’ve searched the web for some delicious recipe ideas and unique gift ideas guaranteed to ensure a wonderful Father’s Day!

RECIPES:

Dad’s Special Breakfast

Surprise Dad with a delicious breakfast in bed. Grilled Steak and Eggs is a hearty meal that satisfies and is sure to start his day off with a smile. If Dad has a morning sweet tooth then whip up this easy Fluffy French Toast recipe.

Picnic in the Park

Grab Dad for a sunshine-filled picnic in the park and be sure to give him a Father’s Day to remember. Pick up some pre-made sandwiches and salads from the grocery store; for a special touch bake up some sweet treats ahead of time to bring along like these Peanut Blossom Cookies.

Backyard BBQ

Give Dad a break from the usual BBQ duties. Try out this quick and easy Beer Can Grilled Chicken recipe and you can bet you’ll get two thumbs up.

GIFTS:

Fired up

Bring back warm memories with this adorable Fire Engine Basket. Complete with bell, ladders and wheels that roll, this is one fire truck that’s sure to deliver four-alarm smiles.

Gone Fishing

If your dad would always rather be fishing then check out these cool fishing-themed gift ideas. Perfect for the outdoorsman they will give him a reason to get out there and catch the big fish.

Going Green

Bring a little of the outdoors in with this Garden in a Glass. It’s perfect for his home or office desk. A unique gift for a unique father.

Made with Love

Grab the kids and make Dad something with love. This cool tool caddy craft is made from an old coffee can. Or make a set of cute family magnets to always remind Dad of those closest to him.

Home Run

Does your Dad love baseball? Send a cool Home Run Basket he’s sure to love. Include some tickets to a weekend baseball game for a real treat!

Happy Father’s Day!

Father's Day Bouquet

Summer flower arrangements

FromYouFlowers.com has a wide assortment of spring and summer flower arrangements guaranteed to set the tone for fun in the sun! Whether you want to show Dad how much you care, send a thank-you gift to the hostess with the mostest, bring a smile to your summer love’s face or add some cheer to your home for a summer BBQ or party, FromYouFlowers.com has you covered!

A Homerun for Dad

Father’s Day is fast approaching—hit a homerun with your gift choice this year with our Big Hit Bouquet! This bright bouquet gives Dad fresh flowers in an oversized baseball mug that he’ll be able enjoy for years!

Cheerful Daisies

Our Delightfully Daisy bouquet is the perfect choice for a hostess thank you gift or a “Just Because” bouquet. Lavender daisies make a bright impression and add warmth and cheer to any home or office.

Sunny Day

Mimic the sunshine with our gorgeous Sunny Smiles flower bouquet! A cheery bouquet of yellow, peach and white blossoms is like a vase full of happiness! This floral gift is an excellent “Get Well” choice, or just the right touch to perk up someone’s spirits.

Wish Come True

Help someone make a summertime wish come true with our Make a Wish Bouquet. A cheerful mix of daisies, carnations and alstroemeria in summery tones of yellow, purple, orange and hot pink, are delivered in a miniature ginger vase adorned with a plaid yellow ribbon. Perfect for any summer love or friend.

Perfect as a Posy

Make someone’s day with this Polka Dots and Posies bouquet! For a treat that can’t be beat, this delightfully cheery bouquet of white daisies and pink roses - presented in a delicately tinted pink glass cube vase, accented with a matching pink polka-dot ribbon - is like a gift of pure joy! It’s an adorable birthday gift as well as a charming arrangement for your summer sweetheart.

Just Like Heaven

Have a summertime anniversary to celebrate? Send our Heavenly Hues bouquet to your sweetie. The enchanting arrangement includes a fragrant mix of blooms in soft blues, light yellows, and white, perfectly accented by a cylindrical vase with a light blue satin finish.

Everything’s Coming up Roses

Make anyone’s day rosy with this charming Stratford Gardens Bouquet! A wonderful centerpiece for any summer day, this bouquet is as lovely as a stroll through the English countryside in the summertime. Pink and peach roses mingle with cool lavender mums, creating the perfect complement to a misty lavender glass vase.

Oh Baby!

Welcoming a new baby into the world this summer? Send our adorable Just Ducky Bouquet, available for a newborn boy or girl, to the new parents and guarantee even more smiles! Displayed in a ceramic duck wearing a sailor hat, this darling bouquet in a yellow and white color scheme includes mums, roses, and carnations. Too cute!

Rare Beauty

Want to let your summertime sweetheart how rare a beauty she is? Send a beautiful orchid. Our striking Dendrobium Orchid plant exudes rare beauty and is a long-lasting reminder of how you feel.

Red, White and Blue All Over

Happy Independence Day! Spruce up a 4th of July BBQ with cheerful Red, White and Blue flower arrangements. Surround one of these bouquets with your hamburgers, hot dogs and all the fixings and you’re good to go!

Summer Smiles Flower Bouquet

Sometimes it’s hard to admit to a mistake, especially in business, however when mistakes happen apologies are always in order. Whether it was your fault or not, let From You Flowers help you express your sentiments in a way that is clear and concise. A subtle and beautiful gift from fromyouflowers.com can turn a business blunder into an opportunity to reinforce important relationships.

Few gifts have the expressive qualities of fresh flowers (see Rutger’s study). Send an arrangement that not only says I’m Sorry, but shows how much you truly value your business relationships. Our corporate service staff are experienced in conveying difficult messages. Let us find a gift that expresses your sentiment in an elegant and professional manner. We will help you every step of the way from choosing the appropriate gift to the best card message.

Apologies can be difficult, but building great business relationships are even more challenging. Let fromyouflowers.com help maintain and reinforce your important partnerships.

For additional details, contact our Corporate Services Department at 860 510 0636 or email corporateservices@fromyouflowers.com to be partnered with an Account Manager who will help you design a program that fits your needs and budget. With a 100% service and product guarantee you can be assured your efforts will always be a huge success.